While I wait to see if Michael, my model, can make it up here in two days I started this small, 12"x12" painting. If the weather is ok he will be coming but right now it isn't looking good - lots of snow and ice already here and freezing rain predicted for friday. It almost seems like something is conspiring to keep me from doing this model-in-a-box project. I have worked and planned to make this as easy as possible, keeping the stress level low, but now things may have to be postponed once again. Meanwhile I have this enormous box sitting in my studio taking up valuable space and there is no place to move it and even if I could I think it would start to fall apart.
This peony is a photo from our garden. I've wanted to do some closeup works of just the blossoms for some time and now that my Daffodil paintings have moved on to a new home I have blank spaces in my bedroom that need filling. I drew the image first and am now transferring it to a wood panel. A friend gave me several wood panel supports and this is my first try on one. It is supported in the back of the panel with wood strips along each edge...I put three coats of gesso on. I won't know until I start applying paint if I'm going to like this surface. I once did a painting on Clayboard and didn't like it at all but it was so expensive and I had already transferred a fairly complex image to it so I saw it through to the end. Also it was a gift for my parents' 50th Anniversary. I was able to use it successfully as a sample in my illustration portfolio back in the day when I did illustration and even had a rep. The result was actually pretty good but I have never used Clayboard again. Surface is too slick for my taste. I need more tooth.
If this peony painting works out ok then I'll do a companion piece on another wood panel, probably of a yellow Iris. I think I'm needing projects that aren't too much of a strain on my brain. Is it typical winter doldrums? Maybe. At least the afghan I'm knitting is coming along nicely:-) I'll show it to you when it's finished and maybe take orders...
I am looking forward to the finished painting. Hope after the weekend when the weather returns to normal, (we can only hope) so that your model can make it to your place to start this interesting project of yours.
ReplyDeleteHi, Karen,
ReplyDeleteI know, I have been scarce for ages. Life you know. I see you have been busy creating your usual stunning art.
LOVE the illustration btw. It's try gorgeous.
Congrats on selling the daffodils... again stunning. Your expertise astounds me more than you could ever know. Ah, if I could only paint like you, I would never stop.
I hope your holidays were wonderful. All the best in 2012. It looks like you are off to a good start.
I will stay tuned to see your finished peony and afghan. I have been knitting scarves like mad. Chicago is freezing. It felt good to be crafty. I haven't done needle work in decades. Nice to know I haven't lost my touch.
Take care,
Michael
The painting for your parents wedding anniversary is absolutely gorgeous! I love the vintage feel to the piece evidenced by the morning glory border too. If you get results like that, it may well be worth the use of clayboard again! Hoping your model can get out soon, Karen. I can imagine your frustration. Your current flower piece is coming along beautifully!
ReplyDeleteHi Karen!... Sorry to hear of your predicament regarding the ongoing delay of your "out-of-the-box" experiment!
ReplyDeletePerhaps the Universe is speaking to "You"!
You mentioned simpler ideas and getting your teeth into them.... sounds like a plan! All of the other activity... and past successes seem not to prepare you for the moment when the Universe will again smile upon your plan... and it will!
Be busy... and be ready!
Turn up the music ... and paint your heart out!
Good Painting!
Warmest regards,
Bruce
I'm so excited to see your art in a box project! It sounds fascinating. Hope your model makes it up there. I don't blame you for having winter doldrums. We don't get much snow here in Virginia and I still feel the need to head to warmer climate. I'm heading to Mexico for a whole week! There is much art inspiration there as well as sun.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see the peony painting. It has such beautiful colors! And I've tried clayboard too and was not all that impressed, I think in those few times I paint with acrylics (haven't tried oils yet) I prefer the tooth of canvas.
ReplyDeleteLove the gift to your parents, what a beautiful and moving piece! Her dress is my favorite part. Here's wishing you good weather so Michael can come out, and can't wait to see the afghan. :)
Lovely..enjoying your blog site
ReplyDelete